Malaysian authorities reported the seizure of crude oil from several tankers suspected of illegal ship-to-ship (STS) transfers without proper permits.
According to law enforcement, the vessels were identified during inspections in waters off the coast of Malaysia. The inspection revealed that the tankers were transferring oil between ships at anchor without notifying the appropriate government authorities and without following established procedures.
⚖️ While STS operations are generally acceptable in oil logistics, they are subject to strict regulation in territorial waters and adjacent zones. The lack of permits may indicate:
— attempts to conceal the origin of the cargo,
— violations of customs and tax regulations,
— possible circumvention of sanctions or trade restrictions.
📦The seized oil has been placed under state control. An investigation is underway to determine:
— the ship owners and tanker operators,
— the volume and origin of the oil,
— any evidence of violations of national and international maritime law.
🚨 If violations are confirmed, ship owners and operators may face substantial fines, confiscation of cargo, and other penalties under Malaysian law.
Malaysia, as a key state in the Strait of Malacca and the South China Sea, has in recent years strengthened its control over unreported STS operations, which are increasingly viewed as a tool for illegal oil trade.